Though they’re well used in the US and UK for making scary lanterns to light up doorsteps every Halloween, poor pumpkins seem to get ignored when it comes to cooking. We’re here to change that. If you haven’t already, you’re about to fall in love with this underrated vegetable!
A great source of fiber, as well as many minerals and vitamins, pumpkins are incredibly versatile gourds that can serve well in various dishes. They can be used in place of other squash vegetables, and they also work great in many sweet treats.
Whether you get a whole pumpkin, a can of pumpkin purée, or use the flesh from your pumpkin lantern this Halloween, now’s the perfect time to try out this wonderful vegetable in a recipe or two. Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best to get you started!
1. Pumpkin Macaroni Cheese
You might never guess it, but pumpkin can make a great base for a creamy cheese sauce. This is a vegan Halloween twist on the classic Mac ‘n’ Cheese that’s as delicious as the original – and healthier!
2. Easy Creamy Buffalo Sage Pumpkin Lasagna
In this recipe, pumpkin is used to create a purée that adds creaminess to this indulgent yet nutritious lasagna. A great twist on the classic Italian dish, this is sure to get you going back for seconds.
3. Traditional Irish Pumpkin Brack
Another recipe that utilizes the sweetness of this wonderful vegetable, is a vegan take on the traditional Irish Barmbrack (or tea loaf). Barmbrack is typically eaten at Halloween time, so including pumpkin in the mix just makes sense!
4. Pumpkin and Basil Pesto Hummus
This bright and beautiful hummus is a festive twist on classic flavors. Try scooping the hummus back into the pumpkin and serve with vegetable sticks, breadsticks, tortilla chips, or anything else your heart desires!
5. Thai Pumpkin Soup
Freshly roasted pumpkin and coconut cream add a rich creaminess to this Thai Pumpkin Soup that’s perfect to keep you warm and cozy on those colder, autumn evenings.
